The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 398

Chapter 398

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Devon’s phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen, then stood. “Perhaps I can offer a solution.” He moved to the whiteboard, marker in hand. “Kane Technology is prepared to invest fifty million dollars in Harper Group, establishing a strategic partnership” He drew a simple diagram. “Additionally, I propose we merge Stellar Impressions into Harper Group as the company’s luxury brand marketing division”

He turned to face the room. “Mrs. Kane has demonstrated exceptional skill in fashion and lifestyle brand marketing–precisely what Harper Group currently lacks. Her expertise could transform our reputation crisis into an opportunity for repositioning.”

Murmurs rippled through the directors. Fifty million was considerable, and Kane Technology’s backing would help restore investor confidence.

“Mr. Kane,” Lawson said slowly, “why would you invest in Harper Group at its lowest point?”

“Because I believe in Mrs. Kane’s vision.” Devon’s gaze didn’t waver. “And because sound business decisions are based on potential, not temporary setbacks.”

Two hours of intense discussion followed. Questions about Integration timelines, brand positioning, financial projections. I answered what I could, deferred to Devon when appropriate, and slowly–very slowly–watched skepticism shift to grudging consideration.

The vote came at four–thirty. Nine in favor, three opposed. The merger was approved. I was appointed Director of Luxury Brand Marketing, reporting directly to the board until a new CEO could be hired.

As the meeting adjourned, Patricia Chen approached, extending her hand. “Mrs. Kane, I withdraw my earlier doubts. You remind me of your mother.”

I shook her hand, maintaining the professional mask even as relief and exhaustion warred inside me. “Thank you, Ms. Chen. But I’m not trying to be her. I’m trying to honor what she built.”

Devon waited until the room cleared before touching my elbow.

how. “You need to eat something.”

“I need to talk to Sophia.” The adrenaline was fading, leaving me hollow. “About taking over as Art Director for the merged division.”

“Tomorrow.” His tone left no room for argument. Tonight, you rest.”.

But rest proved impossible. I sat in Devon’s living room at midnight, staring at my phone. Sophia hadn’t responded to my texts. She d heen distant since the wedding, always claiming to be busy, never quite meeting my eyes when we did talk.

The door opened. Devon entered, still in his dress shirt, sloves tolled to his elbows. “You te supposed to be sleeping.”

“I can’t.” I set down my phone. “Something’s wrong with Sophia, She’s been avoiding me

He sat beside me, pulling me against his side. Then talk to her tomorrow. In person.”

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19:48 Fri, Jan 16

Chapter 398

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I wanted to argue, but exhaustion won. I let him lead me to bed, let lilm hold me as sleep finally came. But even in dreams, I felt the distance growing–not with Devon, but with the person who’d stood by me through everything.

The next evening, I invited Sophia to my Brooklyn apartment. She arrived with wine and the careful smile I’d learned to recognize as her

mask

*So. She settled on the floor, back against the couch like we used to do in college. “VP of Luxury Brand Marketing. That’s impressive.”

“It’s terrifying.” I poured us both wine–mine barely a splash for appearances. “Sophia, that’s actually why I wanted to talk. The merger’s happening, and I want you as Art Director for the luxury division. Devon suggested VP of Marketing, actually. Triple your current salary,

plus equity.”

I watched her face, expecting excitement. Instead, something flickered in her amber eyes–something that looked like regret.

“Aria.” She set down her glass. “I’m not taking the position.”

The words didn’t register immediately. “What? Why? This is incredible-

“Because I’m leaving New York.”

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